‘Man is only great when he acts from passion.’ Benjamin Disraeli.
This statement aptly describes Chris Wells, a seasoned table tennis (TT) player and coach. He achieved many firsts for himself and Saint Lucia, among them organising and coaching in the first Special Needs Table Tennis Tournament and Physical Literacy Festival. This two-time Coach of the Year award winner leads by example as he continues to play competitive TT.
Dazzle sat with Chris to learn more about his work and the second fastest ball sport in the world.
Describe Chris Wells?
I love to have fun. I pursue all goals with passion and determination until they are accomplished.
Two decades is a long time playing TT. What sparked your interest in the sport?
At the time I entered St. Mary’s College it was a popular sport. However, I commenced playing recreationally. My parents provided a table at home, which resulted in me playing the most among my friends.
What differentiates TT from other sports?
TT is a reflex sport. It requires a high echelon of tactics, techniques along with a high level of motor abilities and speed- strength. It has a low injury risk and is a sport for all ages. Despite being an individual sport I believe it provides a unique opportunity for players to develop self-control, focus, mental toughness and concentration.
When did you start playing competitively?
A National Day Tournament in 1992 at which I placed third. Faith Stanislaus, a very good player at the time, encouraged me to enter the competition. The following year I won all the junior tournaments and represented Saint Lucia in Barbados.
I returned from Barbados with a higher level of passion for improving my game. In 1993 I captained the team to the Junior OECS competition where we won the teams’ tournament. I placed second in the singles competition.
What are some of the major tournaments you’ve played in?
Over the years I have won over 20 individual and team titles locally. In 1994 I was privileged to play at the Caribbean Table Tennis Championship where Saint Lucia won its first medal. We had to win nine straight points to place third. Regionally, I won three consecutive titles playing for three different clubs in the Martinique National League. I played in the Caribbean Table Tennis Championships 13 times, the Caribbean and Central American Games three times, and Commonwealth Games and World Table Tennis Championships twice each.
What is the extent of your involvement in the sport of TT?
I have been coaching fulltime from 2013. I work with the national teams – the Under 13, 15, 18 and the Senior Squad. Additionally, I provide training to physical education teachers around the island and organise all national tournaments. Currently, I assist with the Elite Table Tennis Program.
What spurred your interest in coaching TT?
As an athlete my only interest was competing. However, as I matured I recognised the need to give back. Additionally, I felt the need to continue the work of Teddy Mathews by developing a new generation of players for Saint Lucia. Teddy has been a great mentor for all TT players in Saint Lucia.
What level of training have you received?
I studied sports science and attained International Table Tennis Federation Level 2 certification. I am one of two coaches out of 13 who qualified for level 3. In 2015, with assistance from the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, I was selected for a fully funded training course from the International Support Program to the African and Caribbean Sport (PAISAC). This allowed me to be trained as a Level 3 coach under the National Coaching Certification Programme of Canada.
What are your most memorable achievements?
My personal performance at the 2015 Caribbean Table Tennis Championship, by being the first player from the OECS to ever advance to the quarter-finals. Leading a league team in Martinique to win their first tournament in 22 years. Achieving a world ranking.
What are the challenges faced in implementing programmes?
Gaining buy-in from teachers and parents, in order to show them the benefits students derive from participating in sports. One of my objectives is to enable as many young people as possible to represent Saint Lucia; to experience carrying the national flag. To make this a reality, most of the preparatory work must be done in schools.
Who has been instrumental in your development?
Faith Stanislaus, Teddy Mathews, Franklyn Noel and Clement Charles. These players recognised my potential from an early age. My wife Kernetta, who supports my endeavours.
What do you like most about your sport?
TT allows players to develop a sense of responsibilityand recognise that effort determines the level of success. It also allowed me to develop leadership skills.
How has the sport shaped your life today?
Winning tournaments at an early age helped boost my confidence. Also I was mindful to remain out of trouble since I was recognisable. Through my many interactions I built a network of coaches whom I communicate with regularly.
Chris’ story shows the power of resilience and endurance as he continues to provide a great sporting experience to many. Dazzle wishes him well as he continues to make an invaluable contribution to TT in Saint Lucia.
